Seizure First Aid: What You Need to Know

Seizures are more common than many people realize – 1 in 10 individuals will experience one in their lifetime. Epilepsy, a condition that causes recurrent seizures, affects 1 in 26 people. Because seizures can happen unexpectedly, knowing how to respond is essential in preventing injuries and offering reassurance to the person affected.

If you’re interested in proper seizure and epilepsy training for your workplace, the Epilepsy Agency of the Big Bend offers expert-led training sessions. Contact us to request one.

Seizure First Aid Steps:

  1. Stay with the person until they are awake and alert after the seizure. Begin timing the seizure, remain calm, and check for a medical ID.
  2. Keep them safe by moving or guiding them away from harm.
  3. Turn them onto their side if they are not awake and aware. This helps keep their airway clear. If possible, place something soft under their head and loosen any tight clothing around their neck.

When to Call 911: If you’re unsure of the person’s medical history, always call 911. In other cases, emergency help is needed if:

  • The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
  • The person does not return to their usual state
  • The person is injured, pregnant, or sick
  • Seizures repeat without recovery
  • It’s their first seizure
  • They have difficulty breathing
  • The seizure occurs in water

DO NOT restrain the person or put anything in their mouth. Rescue medications can be given if prescribed by a healthcare professional.

For more information contact the Epilepsy Agency of the Big Bend: (850) 222-1777, info@eabb.org

Seizure First Aid Handout

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Download EABB’s Seizure First Aid flyer here.